Get rub-on relief for arthritis joint pain

Prescription strength topical pain relievers are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the form creams, gels, and patches applied to the skin. Topical pain relievers work best for mild to moderate pain from muscles, joints, and other pain sources close to the skin surface. The active ingredients are in the same drug class as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve). NSAIDs can cause stomach upset, bleeding, or ulcers in people who are sensitive to anti-inflammatory medications. Topical pain relievers deliver a lower and more targeted dose of NSAIDs, which lowers the risk of side effects. Over-the-counter creams and rubs may also help for mild pain and soreness. More »

Is the new pneumonia vaccine better?

Two pneumonia vaccinations are available. The newest one, Prevnar 13, stimulates higher antibody levels. Research is under way to find out if the new vaccine works better. Everyone over 65 or at risk of pneumonia complications should be vaccinated. (Locked) More »

Should I worry about finasteride side effect reports?

Some men who took finasteride for urinary problems (Proscar) or balding (Propecia) have reported permanent sexual side effects such as low sex drive or ejaculation problems. It is not established for certain that the side effects are caused by the drug. (Locked) More »

Pain relievers: Bad for your heart?

Prescription strength topical pain relievers are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the form creams, gels, and patches applied to the skin. Topical pain relievers work best for mild to moderate pain from muscles, joints, and other pain sources close to the skin surface. The active ingredients are in the same drug class as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve). NSAIDs can cause stomach upset, bleeding, or ulcers in people who are sensitive to anti-inflammatory medications. Topical pain relievers deliver a lower and more targeted dose of NSAIDs, which lowers the risk of side effects. Over-the-counter creams and rubs may also help for mild pain and soreness. (Locked) More »

Prostate biopsy: What to expect

Prostate biopsy has risks as well as benefits. A small percentage of men get infections. If an infection gets out of control, it can end in hospitalization. Temporary biopsy after-effects include rectal bleeding, blood in the semen, and urinary problems. It is possible to have a negative biopsy result (no cancer found) but still have cancer. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of this procedure. (Locked) More »

Mindful eating 101

Eating too fast and without paying attention is unhealthy. It can cause you to take in more calories in a single sitting than you need. Taking in large amounts of saturated fat into your system makes your arteries less able to respond to momentary changes in demand for blood. A mindful approach to meals brings more enjoyment to eating and reduces overeating and the negative health impacts. Practicing mindfulness beyond meals can promote general stress relief and enhance health and well being. (Locked) More »

Alzheimer's drug update

Studies of two Alzheimer’s drugs (bapineuzumab and solanezumab) ended in disappointment. The drugs are designed to fight the build up of an abnormal protein, beta-amyloid, in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease in order to delay or possibly even stop the progression of the illness. Intravenous versions of the drugs failed to help people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s. But the preliminary evidence suggests that planned new clinical trials may produce better results. (Locked) More »

Fish, not fish oil, prevents stroke

People consuming two servings of fish per week had a lower risk of stroke compared to people who ate one serving or less. Omega-3 fatty acid intake, such as from dietary supplements, is not associated with lower risk for stroke. (Locked) More »